Essential crochet stitches
Most crochet projects combine a few basic movements. Practice them slowly, count at the end of each row, and learn to recognize the top of a stitch before trying a complex repeat.
Before you start: These instructions use US crochet terminology. UK stitch names differ; check our pattern-reading guide if your pattern uses UK terms. The loop already on your hook is not a stitch to count.
Chain (ch)
With a loop on your hook, yarn over and draw the yarn through that loop. Each repetition creates one chain. Let the loop sit comfortably on the shaft of your hook so the foundation does not become too tight.
Slip stitch (sl st)
Insert the hook into the indicated stitch or space. Yarn over, then draw the yarn through the stitch and the loop already on your hook in one movement. Slip stitches are often used to join rounds or move to another position with very little added height.
Single crochet (sc)
- Insert the hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop: two loops are on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through both loops.
This short stitch makes a relatively compact fabric. Try the counted practice rectangle in crochet basics.
Half double crochet (hdc)
- Yarn over before inserting the hook into the stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop: three loops are on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through all three loops.
Half double crochet sits between single and double crochet in height. Keep the last pull-through relaxed so the top loops are easy to find on the following row.
Double crochet (dc)
- Yarn over and insert the hook into the stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop: three loops are on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through two loops.
- Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops.
Double crochet is taller and often produces a more open fabric than single crochet in the same yarn and hook. Yarn choice and tension still affect the result.
Where should the hook go?
Unless your pattern says otherwise, work under both loops of the V at the top of the stitch. Instructions such as back loop only or front loop only change that placement. A chain space is the gap below a chain, rather than a specific top loop.
Practice without losing your edges
Make separate small swatches in each stitch. Follow a beginner pattern’s turning-chain instructions and note whether that chain counts as a stitch. Mark your row ends, keep a consistent count, and label each swatch with the yarn and hook used.
Next, explore the yarn and hook guide to see how materials change the fabric, then learn about finishing and blocking.
Abbreviation reference: Craft Yarn Council. Back to all crochet guides →